Meaning of "R.E.M" by Ariana Grande

"R.E.M" by Ariana Grande explores the concept of a dreamlike romance and the desire to escape from reality into a blissful state. The song starts with the narrator recounting a dream in which she meets a love interest who becomes the embodiment of her fantasies. This dream personifies the perfect partner who is unattainable in reality. The lyrics convey a sense of enchantment and infatuation, describing the love interest as a "dream come true" and expressing a deep desire to remain in this dream-like state. The repetition of the phrase "wake up" reflects the fear of losing this perfect illusion and returning to the harsh realities of life.

The song also delves into the initial stages of infatuation and the struggles of starting a conversation with someone you are intensely attracted to. The lyrics address the awkwardness of expressing feelings and the fear of rejection. The line "Excuse me, um, I love you" exemplifies the dissonance between what one wants to say and what one should say in a conventional conversation. The narrator also mentions observing other girls trying to get the attention of the love interest, highlighting a sense of possessiveness and jealousy.

Furthermore, the lyrics touch on the desire to keep the relationship a secret from others. This secrecy may stem from a fear of judgment or a desire to protect the purity of the connection. The narrator expresses the sentiment that the love interest is not just an object of desire but someone they genuinely care for. There is a longing to keep the relationship private and preserve its specialness by not letting others know about it.

Overall, "R.E.M" captures the intoxicating emotions of infatuation and the longing for an idealized romance that only exists in dreams. It reflects on the initial stages of attraction, the fear of vulnerability, and the desire to cling onto a perfect fantasy.